Dawson Millpond Dam
Key Takeaway
Dawson Millpond Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 14.1% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 240 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 567 acres |
| Drainage Area | 109 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 919 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1915 (111 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00718 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Oakland County Drain Commissioner
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Dawson Millpond Dam?
Dawson Millpond Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Dawson Millpond Dam?
Dawson Millpond Dam is owned by Oakland County Drain Commissioner (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dawson Millpond Dam built?
Dawson Millpond Dam was completed in 1915, making it 111 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Dawson Millpond Dam?
Dawson Millpond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Dawson Millpond Dam?
Dawson Millpond Dam has a dam height of 9 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Dawson Millpond Dam last inspected?
Dawson Millpond Dam was last inspected on September 12, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.